Building works include the development of the derelict lido into a new wet play area, the construction of new accommodation for park staff - including offices and classroom facilities - public toilets and a café for park visitors. It also includes the building of a new play area and a boating jetty.
Barking Park’s renovation is funded with a £3.5m grant from the Heritage Lottery Fund, plus match funding from the council and contributions from Playbuilder funding and Barking Town Centre developments.
Cllr Bert Collins, cabinet member for culture and sport, said: “Now that the contracts have been signed we can look forward to the really exciting part of this project beginning to take shape.
“Features like the wet play area, visitor facilities and café will transform Barking Park into a place which gives something for everyone. We want to make it into an open space that draws people from all over the borough."
Cllr Rocky Gill, deputy leader of the council and borough play champion, added: “We’ve been working hard on this project behind the scenes so it’s great to be able to crack on with the main part of the works. The finished park will give children a wide variety of play experiences, including the wet play area and a new playground.”
Building works are scheduled to finish in October 2011 and landscaping works in December 2011.
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